Former officials to call pro all-star games

A number of former North American Hockey League on-ice officials have been selected to work minor-professional league all-star games this year.

In the American Hockey League, Brian Pochmara will referee the January 28 game to be held in Binghamton, N.Y.

"Obviously, we’re excited for Brian and look forward to seeing him work a full slate of games in the National Hockey League,” said USA Hockey Junior Officiating Development Program coordinator Scott Brand. “Brian was one of the first officials to join our program in 1998-99.”

Jason Nissen will referee the ECHL All-Star Game, slated for January 23 in Stockton, Calif.

In the Central Hockey League, referee Tudor Floru and linesmen Jared Ottenhof and Kyle Simms will call the January 16 game to be held in Broomfield, Colo.

“It's great to see that USA Hockey and the participating league’s efforts are having more positive effects at the higher levels,” Brand added.